Mumbai : Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde unexpectedly flew to Delhi late Wednesday, amid the ongoing monsoon session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. His decision to skip the important session has triggered widespread political speculation.
According to Telangana minister Uday Samant, the visit may be tied to the upcoming Guru Purnima festival and planned meetings with senior national leaders. Meanwhile, Congress MLA Nana Patole asserted that the trip is likely intended to manage internal tensions within the ruling alliance, calling it an effort to “resolve the gang war” brewing within the state cabinet.
In addition, Shiv Sena leader Sushma Andhare has weighed in, suggesting the cause may be associated with an Income Tax notice received by Shinde’s son, MP Dr Shrikant Shinde. She remarked that the “danger from the tax authorities” now outweighs any genuine political opportunity.
These developments come amid renewed speculation over a possible cabinet expansion at the state level. Past reports have indicated discussions between Chief Minister Shinde and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on filling as many as 15 remaining ministerial berths before the government’s term ends in October.
With no official explanation yet from the state leadership, critics have questioned Shinde’s priorities for leaving the legislative session at such a critical juncture. Yet proponents argue the Delhi trip could represent a strategic move ahead of a Cabinet reshuffle or new political realignments.
Unexpected Visit: Shinde departs during critical Assembly session.
Official Justification: Possibly tied to Guru Purnima or meetings with senior BJP leadership.
Opposition View: Seen as an attempt to tackle internal cabinet disputes.
Additional Angle: Sharpened focus on the Income Tax issue involving Shrikant Shinde.
Underlying Context: Fits into ongoing speculation about Maharashtra cabinet expansion.
